In one of last night's most poignant moments, Ronnie Dunn, George Strait, Martina McBride and Faith Hill serenaded Billy Sherill, who was named a BMI icon.

Hill became emotional during her rendition of Tammy Wynette's Stand By Your Man.

Sherill was named BMI's country songwriter of the 20th century in 1999 and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame this year.

The producer and songwriter is widely credited as the founder of the so-called 'countrypolitan' movement that opened the doors for pop-leaning singers like Swift, Carrie Underwood and many of the night's other award winners.

Gold medal: Keith Urban shares a hug with Sheryl

Sherill was typically dismissive about his pivotal role in country music history.